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Close-up of ingrown toenail on big toe, foot care treatment image.
11May

Ingrown Toenail Removal & Treatment

Do you have a toenail breaking into the skin, causing you pain and discomfort? It is an ingrown toenail also known as onychocryptosis. When the top corner edge of the nail breaks through the skin causing inflammation, the pressure from the nail to the skin causes the condition. It is common with the big toes. You experience minor discomfort, and it might infect the adjacent skin, leading to a repeat of the problem.

ingrown

Common causes

  • Wearing tight shoes around your toes.
  • Cutting the nails with a curve.
  • Cutting the nails too short.
  • Toenail or toe injury through stubbing your toe.
  • Natural growth of curved toenails.

When to contact an ingrown toenail Houston specialist?

If at-home remedies do not work or you experience recurring ingrown toenails, or if you have an underlying condition like diabetes, it is time to visit a podiatrist to fix ingrown toenails. Prevent infections by treating them as soon as they occur. Mild cases need minor treatments and simple home remedies, while serious cases may need surgical intervention.

If you are looking for expert advice on ingrown toenail treatment, you may want to seek help from a Houston podiatrist. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment for your ingrown toenail problems. Our foot specialist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale can offer you the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Home ingrown toenail treatment

For slightly sore and red toenail soak the foot in warm water and place a piece of dry cotton under the corner of the nail. If the inflammation becomes worse that if the pain and swelling increases an antibiotic ointment may help and the doctor may try oral antibiotics before exploring other interventions.

Toenail removal and treatment

Your podiatrist might recommend the following kind of treatment to deal with the ingrown toenail.

Lifting the nail

If the area where there is an ingrown toenail is showing redness with the absence of pus, the doctor may recommend lifting. The nail edge is carefully lifted, and a splint, cotton, or dental floss is placed under. This separates the nail from the skin, helping it grow above the skin edge. This is followed by home care treatment; soak the toe and replace the underlying material daily.

Surgery

The doctor might partially remove the nail or remove the nail and tissue.

Partially removing the nail

For a severe ingrown toenail with redness, pus, and pain, the doctor may opt to trim the ingrown part. During this procedure the doctor will temporarily numb your toe using an anesthetic.

Removing the nail and tissue

If the problem recurs continually, the ingrown toenail doctor might suggest removing a part of the nail and the underlying tissue. This may cause the nail not to grow back or part of it will not grow back. The doctor might use a chemical, laser, or any other surgical method.

After the toenail removal surgery, rest the foot raised for a few hours. Refrain from vigorous exercises such as long-distance walking, exercises, and running for two weeks.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. Our foot and ankle specialist can handle all your foot and ankle issues. We will provide you with the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for all foot-related issues.

Podiatrist examining a patient's foot for diabetic foot issues.
3May

How do obesity and diabetes impact the feet? Foot health trends are demanding significant changes in foot health services globally and a lot of orthotic materials are designed for multifaceted foot conditions. The issues driving the demand of specific foot care are; the increase of people with diabetes and those who are obese. They have a characteristic of foot health issues that need pressure-relieving orthotic materials and wider-fit footwear. Diabetes and being overweight are amongst the main issues, leaving the population susceptible to diabetes. If you are looking for some expert advice on diabetic foot care, you may want to seek help from a Houston foot specialist. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment for your diabetic foot problems. Our foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale can provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet

Podiatrist examining a patient's foot for diabetic foot issues.

Obesity

The World Health Organization defines obesity and overweight as excessive fat that impairs health. Obesity is when the body mass index (BMI) is greater than or equal to 30 but when it is greater or equal to 25 you are overweight. This is caused by an energy imbalance between consumption of high energy food and low outflow due to decreased physical activity. Obesity is effectively addressed when you focus on physical activity and nutrition. One of the consequences of obesity is it leads to diabetes and different foot health issues.

The body increases in size, fat and mass distribution on the abdomen and truck. This limits balance and stability; the foot shape and size increase in width and depth. The feet motion changes when standing and walking. Overweight individuals walk slower as a result of reduced stride length and double support needed for the body. The posture is different at the trunk because joint angles in gait in ankle joint prolong the plantar flexion and increase abduction at the everted heel and the hip

Foot health proposed solutions increase foot stability to maintain physical activity that will raise the burning of energy to reduce weight. There is a great association between obesity and diabetes because of increased BMI and waist measurements.

Diabetes

Diabetes is commonly caused by the increase to decrease of blood sugar leading to changes in the body. This leads to long-term complications of macro-vascular problems which sometimes lead to amputations. Fifty percent of diabetic patients who have suffered for more than 20 years have an affected nerve function which stiffens the plantar soft tissue. There are specific changes in the lower limbs and feet leading to foot deformities. There is an increase in callous formation, diabetic blister, and diabetic foot ulceration due to increased pressure to the forefoot. There is reduced walking speed, tremor, and greater stance widths. The footpads lose elasticity and thicken causing the metatarsal head to be exposed to glucose, which can cause diabetic foot infection. This reduces the capability of shock absorption of the feet.

 It is estimated only 20% of diabetic patients wear correct fitting footwear. Suitable footwear distributes pressure from body weight evenly and prevents foot ulceration. Custom molded insoles reduce plantar pressure when walking and standing.

These specific user needs for diabetes foot, call for specialized foot care from a podiatrist and investment in proper footwear. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. Our diabetic foot care specialist can handle all of your foot and ankle issues. We will provide you with the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for all foot related issues

Close-up of toenail fungus on big toe with thick, discolored nail.
26Apr

Close-up of toenail fungus on big toe with thick, discolored nail.

Toenail fungus is caused by mold or yeast, which affects the fingernails and toenails. Yeast infections occur on fingernails and it affects 3 to 12% of the population, but more prevalent in older people. Fungal nail infection causes the nails to be brittle and change color. Mild conditions might need self-care steps and treatment. If the nail fungus is painful and the nails have thickened, you will need medical attention.

Symptoms of toenail fungus

  • Brownish or whitish-yellow nail discolorations.
  • Thick and brittle and crumbly nails.
  • Change in the shape of the nail.
  • The affected part of the nail detaches from the nail bed.
  • Dark colors due to debris build under the nail.
  • Slightly smells foul.

Risk factors which leave one susceptible to foot fungus infections include:

  1. Athlete’s foot
  2. Contact with infectious fungi surfaces in saunas or swimming pools.
  3. Tight shoes
  4. Various skin conditions
  5. Damaged nails
  6. Poor circulation in the legs for people with diabetes or peripheral artery disease.
  7. A weak immune system due to sickness or medications that suppresses the system.
  8. Genetic predisposition
  9. Moisture for people who sweat heavily.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Fungal nail infections are treated depending on the severity and the type of fungus causing the condition. A podiatrist determines this by scraping off some of the affected areas and sending it to the lab. The doctor may prescribe antifungal drugs for application or taking orally. Sometimes a combination of topical antifungal therapies and oral therapies works best.

Looking for toe fungus treatment Houston? To get expert advice on foot and ankle issues, you may want to seek help from the best doctor for nail fungus in Houston. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment for your toenail fungus treatment. Our foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale will provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

  1. Oral antifungal drugs are usually the first choice because of their ability to clear infections quickly than topical drugs. The drugs help the nail to grow slowly replacing the infected nail. Usually administered for six to 12 weeks, though the results usually visible later, after the nail grows completely. Higher success rates are noticed in people less than 65 years of age.
    1. Side effects include skin rash and rare cases of liver damage. So multiple blood tests are administered to monitor how the drugs are working. These are not advisable for people with congestive heart failure or liver disease.
  2. A topical nail lacquer (Ciclopirox). It is a medicated nail polish which is prescribed by the doctor. The nails are painted once a day for seven days, then wipe the layers with alcohol and start afresh application. This is used for almost a year.
  3. Antifungal medicated cream rubbed into the nails after soaking. The creams are more effective on thin nails; the medication gets through the hard nail surface to the fungus. To thin the nails, apply a lotion containing urea or have a doctor thin the surface of the nail.
  4. Laser treatment which removes damaged areas of the skin or nail.
  5. In some cases, the doctor might recommend surgery for foot fungus removal.

Self-care

Use soap and water to wash the feet and dry using a clean towel, dry well between the toes. Keep the toenails shorter by trimming across and keep the ends shorter. Wash the tools you use on your feet and wipe them clean with rubbing alcohol. Avoid nail polish because it will cover the affected nails and avoid the fungus from going away.

Immediately you notice white markings, use over the counter antifungal creams. Thin and trim the nails to reduce pressure on the nails. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. Our foot fungus specialist can handle all of your foot and ankle issues. We will provide you with the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for all foot blister related issues.

Dr. Ejodamen B Shobowale, DPM, smiling in a white coat at DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center.
19Apr

Modern medDr. Ejodamen B Shobowale, DPM, smiling in a white coat at DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center. icine is attractive; there is a specialist for every part of the body. The feet are not an exception and you need a podiatrist to keep them fully functional.  If you are certain of what you want, seek a specialist for your foot issues. Podiatrists are masters who deal with problems affecting lower legs and the feet. Foot injuries and conditions vary; some podiatrists specialize in sports injury, biomechanical, surgery among other conditions while others specialize in more than one condition. Podiatric medical schools are responsible for training, followed by years of residency training. Podiatrists prescribe drugs, do surgeries, order lab tests, reset broken bones and order x-rays.

If you are looking for some expert advice on foot and ankle issues, you may want to seek help from the best podiatrist in Houston. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment with our Houston foot doctor. Our foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale can provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet

What to consider when choosing a  podiatrist.

Experience

Find one who specializes in medical and surgical services if you need, both administrations in your foot issues. An experienced podiatry expert comes up with the best diagnosis and the right treatment choices for foot pains and conditions. It’s critical to check how long they have been in the industry. A few conditions are intricate you need a specialist who can treat complex issues of the feet and one who has the right treatment approach.

Look for references

Get your friends, family members, and relatives to seek reviews of an experienced podiatrist in Houston. The best individual to tell would be one who has endured foot pain or foot injury. The numerous opinions you seek the better for you to compare and decide on the best.

Should emphasize the significance of orthotics

The best podiatrists understand the importance of orthotics. This is because they correct various foot conditions before they become complex. Proper utilization of proper shoe inserts can deal with plantar fasciitis.

Convenience

There are a few interesting points when searching for a podiatrist who will work with you. Part of getting the right treatment depends on if the doctors working hours fit your schedule and do they accept your health insurance. You need to spare each penny in your pocket and getting specialist who acknowledges your medical coverage is vital. Where is the doctor located? Is it accessible by you?

Existing medical condition

Some ailments most likely cause foot conditions. Settle for a foot doctor who is familiar with foot complications that come from pre-existing conditions such as diabetes.

Why do you need to see a podiatrist?

  1. If you start running regularly, have your feet assessed to get recommendations for the right athletic shoe.
  2. If you notice peeling or scaling of the feet.
  3. III. When you experience joint pain in the ankles, heels, and feet, especially if they are red, delicate, swollen or tender and they limit daily activities.
  4. If you are diabetic, you are susceptible to foot problems. Make a podiatrist visits part of your health care routine to avoid complications which can result in amputation.
  5. If you have discolored or thick, or stubborn ingrown toenails.
  6. If you suspect you might have suffered a broken bone, sprain or strain.
  7. VII. If you have wart-like growths
  8. VIII. If you have a callus or corns that are bothersome.
  9. If you notice cuts or cracks on the skin.
  10. If you have athlete’s foot that doesn’t improve after some.

What to expect on your visit to the Houston foot doctor?

The principal visit resembles other specialist’s visit, the podiatrist will ask questions about medical history; mention medications you are on and medical procedures you have undergone.

Assessment of your walk, stand, range of motion and your shoe fit. A podiatrist treats ingrown toenails, bunions, lower back pain, heel pain, foot deformities and blood circulation to your feet for diabetic patients. The podiatrist can recommend physical therapy, orthotics or padding.

Most importantly, choose a podiatrist you are comfortable with. The feet are a very important part of your body. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Houston, TX. Our Houston foot specialist can handle all of your foot and ankle issues. We offer the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for all foot and ankle related issues.

Close-up of a large blister on the sole of the foot with redness and swelling.
12Apr

Blisters on feet occur for different reasons, they vary in size and location. A blister is a small pocket of clear fluid in the upper layer of the skin, in an area of the body. Blister on toe or the foot can interfere with everyday tasks like walking, standing and exercising. There are home treatments that relieve the discomfort of the foot blister.

Foot Blister

Causes of blisters on feet

  • Sometimes one puts pressure on the feet with long hours of standing and walking which leaves you susceptible to blisters on the feet. A friction blister is caused by poorly fitting shoes; too loose and too tight-fitting shoes rub against the skin.
  • Excess perspiration or moisture triggers the blisters, especially during warm seasons.
  • Dyshidrotic eczema – a skin condition that has blisters develop on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands. The blisters are itchy and last two to four weeks. You are at a greater risk of Dyshidrotic eczema if you have high levels of emotional or physical stress.
  • Allergic reactions
  • Fungal infections
  • Exposure to chemical products such as detergents or cosmetics.
  • Frostbite
  • Bacterial infection
  • Chickenpox
  • Herpes

Some blisters resolve within a few days, but some cause severe pain preventing walking and standing. If you are looking for some expert advice on foot blisters, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment with our podiatrist. Our Houston podiatrist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale can provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Home treatment

That pocket of water is very uncomfortable and tempting, especially because you feel the need to pick or burst it. Open blisters could lead to infections, so they should be left alone to harden and disappear.

Soak your feet in cool water or apply cold compresses to reduce itchiness, at least two times a day for 15 minutes each time.

Then apply rich moisturizers such as petroleum jelly, heavy creams, soaking with witch hazel, mineral oil, or ointment.

If the blisters are because of eczema you might need to change your diet to avoid flare-ups. Consult your doctor for advice on what to take and what not to take.

Blister Treatment

  1. If the blister is not popped cover it loosely covered with a bandage or leave it uncovered. If the blister is at the bottom of the foot, relieve the pressure on it by putting donut-shaped moleskin.
  2. For a popped blister wash gently with warm water and soap. Do not use iodine, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Level down the skin, then apply antibiotic ointment to the area. With a sterile bandage cover the area loosely.

When to drain a blister

If a blister is painful, or large or in an awkward position it can be drained. First part of the blister treatement includes, washing your hands with antibacterial soap, then use a clean cotton swab dipped in an antiseptic to clean the blister. Sterilize a needle with rubbing alcohol and make a small hole at the edge of the blister. Gently squeeze the fluid out then wash the area again and pat dry. Leave the skin on and apply ointment and cover with a sterile bandage. Ensure you clean and reapply antibacterial ointment daily until it heals.

Daily care

Change the bandage daily or if it gets wet and dirty. Avoid situations that caused the blisters and avoid wearing shoes to ease the pressure. If you notice signs of infections such as red streaks leading away from the blisters, pus, swollen lymph glands, increased swelling and pain, fever, and if it is more than 10 years since you got your tetanus, seek medical help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. Our Houston foot doctor can handle all of your foot and ankle issues. We will provide you with the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for all foot blister related issues.

Close-up of cracked heel skin showing dryness and peeling.
5Apr

heelCracked Heels – What You Need To Know

Is it hard for you to wear strappy heels or simple sandals to show off your good looking feet without getting worried because of dry cracked heels? A crack in heel and dry feet are more common during summer because the feet are exposed most of the time. Foot care should be easily incorporated into one’s daily routine for the prevention of cracked heels. Care for your feet the same way you care for your face and your body and enjoy healthier, happier feet always.

Causes of cracked heels

There is more than one cause of heel cracks, but it is possible to have more than one cause to affect you.  If you are looking for some expert advice on cracked heels, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment with our podiatrist. Our foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale can provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet

 

  1. Lack of moisture; the skin underneath the feet is usually dry, chapped and rough since fat cells are not present underneath the feet skin and have less elasticity.
  2. Deficiency or lack of zinc, minerals, and vitamins affects the health of the heel.
  • III. Your feet are under pressure to carry the weight of your body in shoes, walking and standing for long hours.
  1. Aging causes the skin to lose its thickness and elasticity, leaving it more susceptible to cracking.
  2. Being overweight can potentially cause cracked heels because of the pressure on the fat pad under the heel causes it to expand sideways.
  3. Exposing footwear with an open back allows the fat to expand and increase the possibility of cracking. If you have to wear the exposing footwear take extra care of your feet.
  • VII. Maintain hygiene to avoid fungal infections.
  • VIII. Spending long periods in the water or damp areas easily cause cracking because water drains the skin of natural oils leaving it dry and rough.
  1. Wearing poorly-fitting shoes will likely cause a change in walking posture and cause poor standing postures.
  2. It is believed that callus skin is sometimes genetically passed on.
  3. Medical causes such as diabetes and high blood sugar which results in poor circulation leading to dry skin.
  • XII. Pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Simple cracked heel treatments

Cracked heels happen because of the formation of callus, lack of proper exfoliation and hydration.

Cracked heel treatments include:

Exfoliation

Calloused heels happen due to daily wear and tear and exfoliation is the safest way to remove them.   Use a foot scrub; pumice stone and foot file to exfoliate every two weeks, but if the calluses are moderate increase exfoliation to once or twice a week. Do not completely get rid of them because they have a function to protect the feet, do not expose your feet to harm.

Moisturize

The feet do not have sebaceous glands, so they are less moisturized unlike other parts of the body. Look for moisturizer products with macadamia, urea, and Shea butter oils because they penetrate the skin. For already cracked feet products with Aloe Vera are suitable because it speeds up the healing process.

Inserts and socks

Wear custom shoe inserts because they distribute your weight evenly. Also, consider silicon heel cups which keep the heel moisturized and prevents it from expanding. Use clinically-tested padded socks.

Cracked heels take time to heal even after showing signs of improvement following initial treatment. Seek medical attention to prevent serious complications from underlying medical conditions. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX. Our Cypress office can handle all of your cracked heel issues. We will provide you with the latest diagnostic and treatment methods for all foot-related issues.